4.2
(117)
856
hikers
50
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Lac De La Palisse offer access to a natural environment characterized by a picturesque lake setting, woodlands, and rivers. The region, nestled between the plains of Sologne Bourbonnaise and the Highlands of the Bourbonnaise Mountain, features varied terrain suitable for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore the area's natural beauty, including the Besbre valley and the ancient volcano, Suc de Cherchemuse. The landscape provides a mix of gentle paths around water bodies and trails through forested areas.
…Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
4.23km
01:13
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(34)
430
hikers
3.91km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(3)
9
hikers
4.37km
01:10
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.06km
01:28
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
7
hikers
6.43km
01:53
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Etymology: comes from Mas d’Adam, name of the old domain which was located at the site of the current village which was ceded by the lord of Géorant to the bishop of Viviers to allow him to found the abbey of Mazan. It all begins with the foundation of the Cistercian abbey in the heart of the village. This takes place between 1119 and 1122. At the beginning of the 12th century, canons came to settle on the site of Mas d’Adam (toponym that would evolve towards MAZAN), and were joined by monks from the abbey of Bonnevaux. These religious men built an immense abbey, of which only the remains are left today, which experienced a period of apogee that lasted until the Hundred Years' War. It gave birth to four other abbeys which are Bonneval, Sénanque, Sylvanès and le Thoronet as well as establishments of nuns. After this prosperous period, misfortunes followed one another at the abbey of Mazan: it was plundered by the great companies of the Hundred Years' War, then attacked by the Huguenots in the modern period. Before this last pillage, the monks, according to legend, would have melted a golden bell with all their treasures, which they would have buried somewhere, opposite and in front of the bull's eye, within earshot of the cock's crow. https://www.montagnedardeche.com/patrimoine-culturel/village-de-mazan-labbaye-2387/
0
0
Very nicely located grotto, you can also go swimming below.
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1
Stroll around the lake on Sunday July 23, 2023. Very pleasant because it is largely shaded. Provide credit card (no possibility to pay in cash) for paid parking from 01/06 to 30/09, package 3€. Lots of people on the beaches and around.
1
0
Work "A circle and a thousand fragments" by Felice Varini. https://www.ardeche-guide.com/lieux-de-visites/sites-historical-monuments/oeuvre-un-cercle-et-mille-fragments-de-felice-varini-4827079
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0
Crater lake, 1,000 meters above sea level with a very pleasant beach for swimming. Very calm. Good food options around and public restrooms.
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1
While jogging around this lake, be aware that it is extremely deep (138 m)! The lake was created by the escape of magma from a chamber below the lake.
3
0
As you walk around this lake, be aware that it is extremely deep (138 m)! The lake was created by the escape of magma from a chamber beneath the lake.
3
0
Nice crossing point in the middle of the ruins. The Grande Porte farm is a good restaurant/refreshment point with a lovely view overlooking the abbey. There is also a water point within the abbey to fill the gourds.
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1
The Lac De La Palisse area offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. There are 7 routes specifically categorized as easy, out of a total of 39 hiking tours in the region.
Easy hikes around Lac De La Palisse feature picturesque lake views, tranquil woodlands, and gentle paths along rivers. The region is characterized by an unspoiled natural environment, including the Besbre valley and the ancient volcano, Suc de Cherchemuse, which offers scenic loops.
Yes, the Lac De La Palisse area is well-suited for families. Beyond the easy hiking trails, the leisure area provides amenities like a children's playground and picnic spots. The region also offers specific family-friendly options such as the 'Randoland circuit' and the 'Water and its Strength' path.
Yes, many easy hikes around Lac De La Palisse are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Tour of Lac d’Issarlès is a popular circular path, as is the Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès.
Easy hikes in the region typically range from 2.4 to 4 miles (3.9 to 6.4 km) in distance. Most can be completed within 1 to 2 hours, making them ideal for a relaxed outing. For instance, the Hiking loop from Saint-Cirgues-en-Montagne is 2.6 miles (4.2 km) and takes about 1 hour 13 minutes.
While many natural areas in France are dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific regulations for each trail or protected area. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails if kept on a leash, but some areas may have restrictions, especially around sensitive wildlife habitats or designated swimming areas. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
Yes, parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails around Lac De La Palisse. The main leisure area at Lac De La Palisse itself offers facilities, and trailheads for routes like those around Lac d'Issarlès typically have designated parking areas.
The easy trails around Lac De La Palisse are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Hikers frequently praise the accessible paths, the beautiful lake views, and the peaceful, natural environment, making them perfect for relaxed strolls.
While specific highlights are not listed for every easy route, the region itself offers several points of interest. The ancient volcano, Suc de Cherchemuse, provides a unique natural feature. The Lac De La Palisse leisure area also includes a fisherman's shelter and pontoon, accessible to all, and the wider Pays de Lapalisse region is known for its numerous small lakes and woodlands.
The Lac De La Palisse leisure area is a hub for various outdoor activities. Besides hiking, you can enjoy fishing, cycling, mountain biking, road cycling, swimming, water games, and non-motorized rowing. The area also has a children's playground, picnic spots, and a bowling alley, making it a versatile destination for recreation.
The area around Lac De La Palisse is accessible year-round. However, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for hiking, with mild temperatures and beautiful seasonal foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for combining hikes with water activities, while winter can provide a serene, quiet experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
While popular lake loops like the Lac d’Issarlès – Lake Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès can attract visitors, the broader Pays de Lapalisse region features many smaller, less-trafficked trails through woodlands and along rivers. Exploring routes slightly further from the main lake areas can often lead to a more secluded experience.
The main leisure area at Lac De La Palisse typically has facilities where you can find refreshments or picnic spots. Additionally, nearby villages and towns in the Pays de Lapalisse region will offer cafes, restaurants, and local shops where you can grab a bite to eat after your hike.


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